Nigerian Troops Destroy 80 illegal Refineries in Niger Delta

Troops of the joint Operation Delta Safe have arrested three individuals and destroyed 80 refineries in different parts of the Niger Delta, Major Abubakar Abdullahi, the coordinator of its Joint Media Campaign Centre, has said.

A statement from Abdullahi said the troops intensified their raids against crude oil theft with destruction of 80 illegal refineries across Bayelsa, Delta and Rivers states recently.

“Three suspects were also arrested in connection with the illegalities, and are currently undergoing investigation.”

He said in Delta state, the troops around Sara Abileye swamp in Warri South West local government area discovered a network of six illegal refineries made up of four storage tanks, two dug out pits filled with products suspected to be stolen crude oil.

“Additionally, another patrol at the axis Ajoloso Creek in Elume community destroyed a camp housing eight illegal refineries.

“Similarly, troops destroyed nine illegal refineries comprised of four ground pits and three metal tanks filled with product suspected to be stolen crude oil at Katu near Camp 5 in Warri South-West.

“This is in addition to seven illegal refineries earlier destroyed around Opunami Creek.”

The statement said another operation around Udu, Ughelli South local government led the troops to eight illegal refineries depot at Udu trailer park. The troops also destroyed 1200 drums laden with 140 metric tonnes of illegally refined diesel.

“In Rivers state, troops destroyed other 10 illegal refineries around Bolo in Bonny local government. This is in addition to 25 others earlier raided at Creek 6 and Ijokiri in same local government area.

“Let me appeal to all law-abiding citizens to continue to support the Operation Delta Safe operational activities with valuable information.

“All hands must be on deck to frustrate the activities of economic saboteurs. Let me also advise the sponsors and operators of illegal refineries to desist from the economic sabotage which begets environmental pollution and other social problems,” he said adding that the troops would not relent until its mandate is achieved.